The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun I Command, has made significant strides in its anti-smuggling operations, intercepting goods valued at over N229 million in Duty Paid Value (DPV) shortly after the appointment of Acting Customs Area Controller, DC Mohammed Salisu. The announcement was made during a press conference on December 19, 2024, at the Command’s Headquarters in Idiroko. In his address, DC Salisu emphasized his commitment to professionalism, integrity, and the eradication of smuggling activities that harm the Nigerian economy. He credited the success to strategic intelligence, surveillance, and collaboration with patriotic Nigerians, highlighting the unwavering support of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR.

Recent operations by the Command resulted in the interception of several illicit goods. These included 2,169 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 1,128 parcels of cannabis sativa weighing over 1,100kg, 21 bales and 2 sacks of used clothes, 166 pieces of pneumatic tyres, 4,360 cartons of imported shoes, 250 kegs of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), 20 smuggling vehicles, and a foreign-used 2012 Toyota Highlander. These seizures occurred at key smuggling hotspots, such as Idiroko, Ilaro, Alamal-Rounda, Obada Oko-Abeokuta, and Ijoun axes.

DC Salisu emphasized the detrimental effects of certain seized items. The illegal importation of rice disrupts Nigeria’s efforts to achieve food self-sufficiency and negatively impacts local rice production. The smuggling of cannabis sativa, on the other hand, endangers public health and safety, while the illegal importation of used clothes poses health risks and hinders the growth of the local textile industry.

In his address, the Acting CAC issued a stern warning to smugglers and their collaborators, urging them to halt illegal activities or face the full force of the law. He assured the law-abiding public and legitimate traders that the Command’s operations were focused solely on offenders, with the goal of supporting legal trade and fostering economic growth.

In his concluding remarks, DC Salisu expressed his gratitude to the CGC and the management team for the opportunity to serve as an Area Controller. He commended the officers and men of the Ogun I Command for their dedication and resilience, urging them to stay vigilant and disciplined. The Acting CAC also called on the press to continue educating the public on the dangers of smuggling and economic sabotage, reaffirming the Command’s commitment to safeguarding the economy, protecting communities, and upholding the integrity of the Nigeria Customs Service.